Author Question: Which of these individuals would the nurse consider at highest risk for a suicide attempt? a. Man ... (Read 103 times)

nevelica · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

Which of these individuals would the nurse consider at highest risk for a suicide attempt?

a. Man who jokes about death
b. Woman who, during a past episode of major depression, attempted suicide
c. Adolescent who just broke up with her boyfriend and states that she would like to kill herself
d. Older adult man who tells the nurse that he is going to join his wife in heaven tomorrow and plans to use a gun

Question 2

During a mental status assessment, which question by the nurse would best assess a person's judgment?

a. Do you feel that you are being watched, followed, or controlled?
b. Tell me what you plan to do once you are discharged from the hospital.
c. What does the statement, 'People in glass houses shouldn't throw stones,' mean to you?
d. What would you do if you found a stamped, addressed envelope lying on the sidewalk?

sierramartinez · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
When the person expresses feelings of sadness, hopelessness, despair, or grief, assessing any possible risk of physical harm to him or herself is important. The interview should begin with more general questions. If the nurse hears affirmative answers, then he or she should continue with more specific questions. A precise suicide plan to take place in the next 24 to 48 hours with use of a lethal method constitutes high risk.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
A person exercises judgment when he or she can compare and evaluate the alternatives in a situation and reach an appropriate course of action. Rather than testing the person's response to a hypothetical situation (as illustrated in the option with the envelope), the nurse should be more interested in the person's judgment about daily or long-term goals, the likelihood of acting in response to delusions or hallucinations, and the capacity for violent or suicidal behavior.